The Kentucky Derby is quoted as being the most exciting two minutes in sports. We knew 2 years ago when our sweet Kate was born that the Kentucky Derby would be landing on her birthday several times since it is always the first Saturday in May. So, for her 2nd birthday, nothing seemed more fitting than a good old Kentucky Derby celebration!

Party Inspiration I researched a TON online, but didn't find a ton of inspiration specifically for Derby parties. I incorporated ideas found on Pinterest too. I knew I wanted soft pinks and grays for the palette and really ran with that. I used a lot of items I already owned and borrowed a lot from my mom. Our silver julep glasses were gifted to my husband and me as a wedding gift, we used my mom's antique beverage cart, our old Shabby Chic quilt from our spare bed, Kate's clothing dresser and borrowed glass jars from a friend's wedding help set the scene.

DIY details I'm a DIYer by nature and loved creating the cupcake stands from an upside down vase, candle stick holder and candle plate from the Dollar Tree. The milk jars are repurposed from Starbucks jars. The rosette ribbon invitations were created with recycled book pages and lovely ribbon. I used chalkboard spraypaint on an old silver platter to create a recipe board for the mint julep station and painted the horse shape shillouettes as food markers. I also assembled treat buckets for the kiddos who attended the party.

Sweets, Treats & Eats Inspiration from Jess at Pen n' Paperflowers on her marvelous homemade lollipops! My mom helped make the most DELICIOUS mini hot browns I've ever had. Another Kentucky favorite! We also had cut fruit served in waffle cones, beer cheese, country ham and biscuits and even mint julep cupcakes.

Beverages A mint julep station was set up for those brave enough to try them! For those who weren't we had other beverages, including Kentucky's favorite soft drink, Ale 8.

Party Favors Individual Derby pies were given to all of the guests as thank yous.

Extra Party Details For a $1 everybody picked a horse name from a hat and the winner took all (which by the way, of course I didn't win, I never can pick a winner!) The weather was a little cool and cloudy but the sun came out just in time to sing happy birthday and to shine on my old Kentucky home.